Chronic Pelvic Pain

Definition

Pelvic pain is located between the belly button and the hips and groin. If it lasts for 6 months or more it is called chronic pelvic pain. It is often difficult to figure out the source of the pain. Pelvic pain can be caused by problems in the:

Psychological conditions, such as
depression, or a history of physical or sexual abuse

Neuromuscular conditions

Pudendal neuralgia

Muscle pain

Nerve pain

Lower back pain

Joint and bone pain

Muscle strain

Risk Factors

Having one of the conditions listed above increases your chance of having chronic pelvic pain. Other factors may include:

Miscarriage

Cesarean section

Alcohol or drug abuse

Heavy menstrual flow

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

Constant pain or dull ache in pelvic area

Burning, shooting pain

Rectal urgency

Pain that comes and goes

Pain that ranges from mild to severe

Pain with certain activities

Pain with prolonged sitting

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You may be asked to keep a pain journal to help your doctor diagnose the pain. You will be asked to write down when your pain occurs, how it feels, and how long it lasts.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Chronic pelvic pain. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at:
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/chronic-pelvic-pain.html. Updated April 2014. Accessed June 4, 2015.

Chronic pelvic pain. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website. Available at:
http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq099.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20130611T1540053024. Published August 2011. Accessed June 4, 2015.